India prepared for plague, but early diagnosis critical, says expert

An infectious disease expert says India is well-prepared for a potential plague outbreak, but stresses early diagnosis is critical. The statement follows a suspected plague death involving a laboratory worker, which the expert says is not evidence of a wider outbreak. The expert, Dr Ishwar Gilada, notes plague is a rare bacterial infection distinct from Covid. He outlines three forms, with pneumonic plague being the most serious, causing severe pneumonia. He recalls India's 1994 Surat outbreak, highlighting the need for careful response due to potential social and economic impacts. India's laboratory capacity has expanded significantly since the Covid pandemic, supporting testing for emerging infections. The expert emphasizes that pneumonic plague is curable with prompt treatment, and effective antibiotics are inexpensive and widely available. He advises public vigilance but no panic.